Catalyst Samples and Characterization

Modeling of Processes and Reactors for Upgrading of Heavy Petroleum 

The spent catalyst is washed with hot toluene by the Soxhlet process before analysis, so that hydrocarbon and other impurities adhered to the catalyst surface are removed. After washing, the spent catalyst is free of hydrocarbons hence, its composition is also known as dry basis. The spent catalyst is regenerated with air at 550°C during 5 h, so that most of the coke and sulfur are burnt off. The remaining coke is more difficult to remove (hard coke) and requires more severe regeneration conditions. 

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